Losing Maria.....

She said it was on her mind for a while.

To me it was a rash decision, especially since she has two children and no other job lined up. But she seemed to clash with Corporate a lot recently and got paid very little for all she had to do.

I can completely sympathize with that.

Our assistant store manager at the arts-and crafts store gave her two-weeks notice. Today was her last day.

I reported directly to her and together we made a GREAT team!

We attended the same art college (though at different times) and we'd often discuss all the men that have played with our hearts.

I considered her a friend at work and hopefully now, one outside of work too.

She's struggling with the unknown right now and going through a difficult time so I wanted to make her something.

Here's the painting I did just for her.....

"Maria's Freedom"

Mixed media on canvas - 8" x 8" x 1 1/2" (NFS)

Since she has a passion for our store I wanted to use items we sell:. the rhinestones, decorative paper, glitter (of course!), and paints.

It made the finished painting a fine art/craft hybrid. I've always done one or the other and this is the first time merging the two styles.

::: Close-up detail :::

Hopefully in the weeks ahead it can bring some comfort (and sparkle!) to her.

She advanced several times within our store over a two-year period and I know she's resourceful enough to do it again elsewhere.

Fly free, Maria!

One day I'll get to escape from there too.....